Suspect in custody after three students shot during drive-by at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School

ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WCBD) – Three Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School students were injured Wednesday during a drive-by shooting. Sheriff Leroy Ravenell said that as of 8:00 p.m., a suspect is in custody.

The shooting happened during dismissal. Law enforcement was on campus as of 4:30 p.m.

The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office sent its crime scene unit to assist Orangeburg authorities in their investigation.

According to a statement from the school, all students were secured inside the building shortly after the shooting.

“Our community’s continued patience and prayers are requested for all students, especially those who sustained injuries resulting from this afternoon’s tragedy,” they said.

The school plans to release additional information regarding the extent of injuries when appropriate. Right now, they say injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening.

Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School will be closed to students for the remainder of the week. The school is coordinating remote and in-person counseling services for students, staff, and families.

The following message was sent to students and families Wednesday night:

Today our school community experienced the day that we’ve worked hand in hand with law enforcement to prepare for, but have always prayed would never actually happen. 

As many are now aware, during afternoon dismissal at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School three students sustained injuries from gunshots fired outside. The injured students are in stable condition at this time. We join their families, teachers and our entire community in continued prayer for their full recovery. 

We appreciate the quick action of school administration, teachers, and staff in moving all students to a safe location inside the school, while law enforcement secured the campus and first responders cared for the victims. Although the investigation is ongoing, law enforcement has apprehended a suspect believed to be responsible.

Families of all students have been updated as quickly as new information has become available, including details regarding the safe reunification for students with their parents and guardians. 

We understand how upsetting today’s tragic events have been for all, including those who are staying updated on this situation from afar, but most especially those closest to today’s tragedy.  

Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School will be closed to students for the remainder of the week, which includes all after school activities and athletic practices. Teachers and staff will report to work tomorrow as scheduled. 

Throughout the remainder of the week, in person and remote counseling resources will be made available to Orangeburg-Wilkinson’s students, staff and families as we recover together and heal from such a tragic afternoon. In-person counseling for teachers and staff will take place at OW. Students and families who would benefit from in-person counseling will be served at the Technology Center, located at 3721 Magnolia Street. 

Remote counseling services will also be available. Please visit Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School’s website for the Virtual Counseling information. 

Dr. Foster

Editor’s note: This story is breaking and will be updated.